Most of Raoul de Keyser’s work is abstract paintings and works on paper. Spreading a few thick lines and scatter fragments on a monochromatic canvas will constitute a piece of his work. Raoul de Keyser’s works use very few elements, such as, a few simple patterning or a few limited pieces of color, which makes his paintings seem clumsy and simple. However, when I look at them closely, I find there is something poetic in the unspeakable feeling of paintings.
Raoul de Keyser’s works reflect his ephemeral observations of life, for example, the minutiae of everyday life, a hose hanging over the patio, a tent pitched in a field, Araucaria angustifolia outside the studio, gloomy skies, etc. The scenes depicted in the work bear witness to his peaceful, prosperous and quiet way of life. Although his materials are common in daily life, these materials have a mysterious vagueness and uncertainty. In addition, some simple themes recur in Raoul de Keyser’s works, reflecting his unflagging passion for exploring the possibilities and limits of painting. It is these deceptively simple themes that generate a fascinating intensity and ambiguous tension.
To be specific, appreciating Raoul de Keyser’s works make me realize that he always kept a sharp reaction on his living environment and was adept at abstracting them.